The MS1 Galaxy is the entry level earphone of the timeless Hidizs Mermaid series which includes many successful earphones like the MS3 and MS5.
The MS1 has been part of the Hidizs catalog for almost 5 years now, it was first released back in 2019 with the name MS1 Mermaid, and subsequently upgraded to the Rainbow version. This new, Galaxy version, represents an attempt to bring Hi-Fi level materials and technology to a wider audience, making it a true value-for-money option.
Technical stuff
The MS1 Galaxy, features a customized 10.2mm high-performance dual magnetic circuit dynamic driver with a PU+PEEK composite high-polymer diaphragm. This material is recognized as the most stable and mature diaphragm solution in the driver manufacturing industry. It has the characteristics of good uniformity of texture and light weight. Furthermore, the dual magnetic circuit structure improves the magnetic flux, has higher electro-acoustic conversion efficiency and significantly reduces nonlinear distortion.
Non audio stuff
The ear-shells are made from high-density, Germany's Makrolon, resin compound which is skin friendly with non-irritating properties. The compact and rather lightweight ear-shells (10g) have a custom-like, ergonomic shape that allows for a stress-free and stable fit while offering decent passive noise attenuation. The Hidizs MS1 is very comfortable to wear, you can use it for hours without even knowing that it is in your ears. The MS1 Galaxy is available in four colors to choose your favorite one.
The MS1 Galaxy features a standard 0.78mm detachable cable which is made from silver-plated oxygen-free copper wire. This is a cable of surprisingly high quality considering the price of the earphones and you have the option to order it with or without a mic.
Except for the cable, the only other thing included in the package is a set of silicone ear-tips in three sizes.
Audio stuff
Rated at 32Ω/108dB, the MS1 Galaxy is an easy load that doesn't require much power. You can use it straight out from your phone's 3.5mm jack or even better with an entry level USB DAC dongle like the Hidizs SD2.
The Hidizs MS1 Galaxy has a V-shaped tuning with plenty of bass that is not overly dominant. This is a fun, warm and slightly dark sounding earphone that is made for everyday casual listening to a great variety of music.
The mid-bass is generously emphasized so do not expect neutrality and tonal accuracy but still you can listen to all kinds of music as long as you are not in a critical mood. The bass is full , weighty, impactful and dynamic with good control and speed for an entry level earphone. It is not the most fast and controlled bass but it is not too sluggish or bloated either. Layering and definition are satisfying when the bass line is relatively simple but it struggles to keep up and follow when things get a little more complex.
Transition to the mids is rather seamless, the mid-range is not that present but it manages to stay clear enough and well defined without getting overpowered by the mid-bass. The overall tonal balance is slightly uneven but still voices and instruments are clearly reproduced with good intensity and plenty of weight albeit lacking a little in harmonic richness. The upper mid-range is more prominent than the lower mids but not that emphasized as to sound shrill or piercing.
The treble extension is good, it has the exact needed amounts of energy and brilliance that are necessary to counterbalance the warmness of the low-end and help the MS1 not sound too dark. Detail retrieval and definition are sufficient while the general feeling is that of a smooth and polite sounding earphone that is not that resolving and refined. But such criticism is rather unfair considering that the MS1 Galaxy is an entry level, budget friendly earphone that is made for leisure use during the day.
Soundstage size and imaging are not spectacular but still better than expected. The Hidizs MS1 Galaxy doesn't sound too congested or crammed and has adequate spaciousness to sound open and alive.
Conclusion
The Hidizs MS1 Galaxy is a budget friendly earphone with a popular tuning that makes it suitable for casual use. A great choice for the youth that is entering the hobby or more experienced users that need something simple and comfortable to carry around during the day. For such target groups, the Hidizs MS1 Galaxy is an excellent and very affordable earphone that gets highly recommended.
The review sample was kindly provided free of charge in exchange for an honest review.
The price of the MS1 Galaxy is $15.99 (tax excluded) and you can buy it from Hidizs.